Australian men through to World League Finals

WATER POLO: With their third successive win, the Australian men’s water
polo team, have booked their place in the FINA World League
Finals with a 16-9 victory over Japan at the Intercontinental
Cup in Shanghai, China.

Eight members of the Australian Team found the back of the cage, with
New South Welshman Tyler Martin leading the charge with a stirring four goal
haul, three of which came in the final quarter.

Other scorers included captain Richie Campbell, London
Olympians Johnno Cotterill and Aidan Roach, Jarrod Gilchrist and Lachlan
Edwards, who all found the back of the net twice, while Billy Miller and Nathan
Power also found gaps in the Japanese defence.

The Aussies had a slower start to the game than expected to
lead 3-1 at the first break. The game tightened up in the second quarter with
both sides scoring three goals for a 6-4 half time difference.

Methodical attack in the second half saw Australia take
control of the game to outscore Japan by two and four goals in the third and
fourth terms respectively.

Coach Elvis Fatovic said he was content with the win,
underscoring the need for better focus in defence.

“We are satisfied with our third win, one which sees us
confirm our direct qualification for the World League Finals,” Fatovic said.

“We didn’t have too many lost balls in the first quarter, and
started to play better in the second half of the game, showing more discipline
in our attack.

“Several players used this game to play in different
positions, managing to score goals, but we must pay more attention in defence.”

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